RC Scale Sizes Guide
RC cars are available in different sizes, which determine their scale.
The size of an RC car refers to its physical dimensions, while its scale represents how it compares to a real-life vehicle.
The world of RC cars can be divided into two categories:
- replica RC cars
- hobby-grade RC cars.
Replica RC cars are designed as display pieces and resemble scale model kits. The scale of these cars is based on the same ratios as their real-life counterparts. On the other hand, hobby-grade RC cars are not modeled after life-sized vehicles, and their scale is typically synonymous with their size.
RC scale size explained easy
In simple terms, RC cars are described by their scale size, which is a ratio or fraction like 1:10 or 1/10. This scale determines how big or small the RC car is compared to a real-life car.
A higher scale means a smaller RC car, while a lower scale means a bigger RC car.
For example, an RC car the same size as a real car would be a 1/1 scale, while a 1/64 scale RC car is one of the smallest available.
The most commonly used scales in the RC car hobby are 1:6, 1:8, 1:10, and 1:12.
Scale Sizes of RC Cars That Have been Modeled After Real Vehicles
Replica RC cars, which are models of real vehicles like cars, trucks, and motorcycles, are a highly popular type of RC car.
Automakers who grant licenses to RC car replica makers usually require that the models be accurately scaled to a ratio comparable to the real car.
The best scales for replica RC cars are 1:10 and 1:12 because they offer a good balance between size and detail. These replicas are typically crafted with high levels of precision and detail, making them ideal for display purposes.
For instance, the Tamiya 1:10 Tyrell P34 SixWheeler F103 is a replica RC car that models the famous Tyrell P34 Formula One race car. This RC car boasts a highly detailed body with precise decals and markings.
Automakers often grant licenses to RC car companies to create replicas of their vehicles. These licenses typically come with requirements for the replicas to be accurately scaled and detailed, and may also include restrictions on the marketing and distribution of the replicas.
By granting these licenses, automakers can extend the reach of their brand and provide enthusiasts with the opportunity to own a miniature version of their favorite vehicles.
Let’s say a popular automaker like Lamborghini wants to allow an RC car company to create a replica of one of their vehicles as an RC car. They would grant a license to the RC car company, which would outline the terms and conditions of the agreement.
The license might include specifications on the size and scale of the RC car, as well as requirements for accuracy and level of detail.
It might also include guidelines on how the Ford logo and branding can be used on the RC car, and how the RC car company can market and sell the product.
Examples of common replica RC cars’ scale sizes
Replica RC cars are commonly available in various scales that determine their size and level of detail.
1:10 Scale Size
The 1:10 scale is a popular choice for replica RC cars as it offers a balanced combination of size and detail. These cars usually measure between 17 and 22 inches in length, providing a good size for displaying the high level of accuracy and detail of the replica.
1:12 Scale Size
Another popular scale for replica RC cars is the 1:12 scale, which is slightly smaller, with cars typically measuring between 14 and 16 inches in length. This makes them easy to handle and display while still showing off intricate details.
1:24 Scale Size
The 1:24 scale is one of the smallest scales for replica RC cars and is often used for collecting and displaying. Cars in this scale usually measure between 5 and 8 inches in length, making them small and compact, while still providing enough detail to be recognizable as a replica.
| Scale | Size Range (inches) |
|---|---|
| 1:6 | 28-32 |
| 1:8 | 22-25 |
| 1:10 | 17-22 |
| 1:12 | 14-16 |
| 1:16 | 9-12 |
| 1:18 | 8-11 |
| 1:24 | 5-8 |
Scale Sizes of Hobby-Grade RC Cars
Hobby-grade RC cars are engineered to withstand the demands of high-speed racing and off-roading, making them tough enough to tackle rough terrain. These RC cars are typically faster and larger than replica models, and are designed to handle extreme conditions.
Hobby-grade RC cars are available in a variety of scales, but the most common ones are
- 1:8,
- 1:10,
- 1:12.
In the case of hobby-grade RC cars, the scale is often used interchangeably with size because many of these models are not replicas of real-life vehicles. As a result, the scale of a hobby-grade RC car usually corresponds to its size, and most 1:10 hobby-grade RC cars will have similar dimensions.
examples of common scales for hobby-grade RC cars
There are several scales available for hobby-grade RC cars, each with its own benefits and uses. Some of the most common scales for hobby-grade RC cars include:
1:10 Scale – This is a popular scale for RC cars, offering a balance between size and speed. Cars in this scale typically measure between 17.6 and 21.6 inches in length, making them versatile for both on and off-road driving.
1:8 Scale – This scale is larger and typically used for off-road racing and bashing. Cars in this scale measure between 17.5 and 21.6 inches in length and are designed to handle rough terrain and high speeds.
1:5 Scale – This is one of the largest scales available for RC cars, providing maximum speed, performance, and durability. Cars in this scale can measure up to 30 inches in length and are built for extreme off-road conditions. An example of a popular 1:5 scale RC car is the Traxxas X-Maxx.
| scale | Measurement | 1/28 | 1/16 | 1/12 | 1/10 | 1/8 | 1/5 |
| Weight | 1 to 1.98 pounds | 5.4 – 10lbs | 2.8 – 3.3lbs | 3.2 – 11.2lbs | 5.4 to 10lbs | 60 – 80lbs |
| Length | 3 – 7” | 7.62- 17.78cm | 10 – 14” | 25.4- 35.56cm | 14 – 16” | 35.56- 40.64cm | 17.5 – 21.6” | 44.45- 54.86cm | 18. -23.43” | 45.72- 59.5cm | 30 – 40” | 76.2- 101.6cm |
| Width | 3.46” | 8.87cm | 3.5 – 6.5” | 8.9- 16.5cm | 7 – 7.3” | 17.78- 18.54cm | 7.8 – 14.4” | 19.8- 36.5cm | 10.4 – 16.6” | 26.4- 42.1cm | 28 – 32” | 71.1- 81.3cm |
| Height | 4.65” | 11.8cm | 2.5 to 3.9″ | 6.35- 9.9cm | 4 – 4.92” | 10.16- 12.5cm | 4.2 – 9.1” | 10.6- 23.1cm | 3.9 – 9.8” | 9.9- 24.9cm | 16 – 24” | 40.6- 61cm |
